Transformation Tuesday: Re Thinking Your Commute

This week’s message of change calls attention to the current state of transportation all across the country. The topic is important to us as we work on highway transformation projects for drivers to admire the natural environment of the city they live in. We will discuss three new commuting models created for people moving in and out of cities in America today.

When driving down the highway on your daily commute, it is going to be important for drivers to start thinking about the impact vehicle greenhouse gas emissions is having on our environment. According to the U.S Environmental Protection Agency, “Greenhouse gas emissions from transportation have increased by about 18% since 1990.” These gases radiate into our surrounding environment and contribute to what is known as the greenhouse effect. A buildup of gases like carbon dioxide in our atmosphere contribute to rising temperatures in the atmosphere around the world.

A few cities are avoiding getting into their cars everyday with these new transportation methods. First off, the Minneapolis light rail has been opening new lines across the city since 2004. According to the Star Tribune, “The number of miles driven has declined over the past 10 years while the use of public transportation has risen.” Additionally a Washington D.C suburb is now paving the way towards a revolutionary metro system. The community of Arlington had been re-built to accommodate new residents who have the need for a daily commute on the orange line which goes underground into the city and takes about 40 minutes. In the hilly town of Portland Oregon, commuters even have the option to take a gondola up a mountain to arrive at their work and school location. The new tram makes arrival easier to the Oregon Health and Science University. The Portland Aerial Tram opened in 2007 and it takes commuters and university members to the area of Marquam Hill in about 3 minutes.

With attention to these new modes of transportation along with the success of our bustling “L” in Chicago, people across the country will contribute to helping reduce the effects of greenhouse gases on the environment and find a way to become more sustainable in their daily transportation routine.